What To Know Before Moving to Seattle

When you think of Seattle, grunge music, Amazon, and Starbucks probably come to mind. But if you’re thinking about making Seattle your new home, you’ll need a better understanding of the everyday details. Things like the cost of living, traffic, transportation, and the best neighborhoods to settle in.

That’s where we come in. We’ve pulled together all the essential info and resources to help make your move as easy as making a cup of coffee!

Living on the West Coast often comes with a hefty price tag, and Seattle is right in the thick of it. Living expenses are 50% above the national average and rent is 26.4% pricier than its neighbor, Portland. 

Yes, it’s a bit of a splurge, but the experience is worth every penny. So, if you're eyeing Seattle, either budget a little more or start the hunt for a roommate to share the cost.

Seattle is the sort of place where owning a car feels more like a luxury than a necessity. As traffic becomes increasingly relentless, locals are finding convenience in the public transportation system.

Whether you’re hopping on a bus or gliding along the monorail, you can easily navigate from the airport to the heart of the city. With a monthly ORCA pass in hand, the entirety of Seattle’s public transportation system is at your fingertips.

Ride-sharing is gaining momentum and doubles as a great way to meet new people while exploring the city. But if you really want to blend in with the locals, hop on a bike in rain or shine.

When you tell people you’re moving to Seattle, you’ll probably get the classic response: “But it rains all the time there!” 

Here’s a fun comeback: “Actually, Seattle is 44th on the list of major U.S. cities for annual rainfall. Houston and Nashville get more rain than Seattle!”

Sure, Seattle has its fair share of drizzle and cloudy days—about 201 cloudy days and 150 rainy ones each year. The real wet months are October through January, so keep an umbrella handy.

But here’s the good news: Seattle’s weather is pretty mild. It’s rarely too hot or too cold. Summers are a well-kept secret—sunny, not too humid, and around 75 degrees. Sometimes, it can reach the 90s, and winters usually stay above freezing. Snow is so rare that when it does fall, the city comes to a standstill.

So next time someone brings up the rain, you can share these facts and show them Seattle’s weather has perks too!

Newcomers often say that it’s tough to connect with people in Seattle. Sure, folks are friendly on the surface, but getting past that can be a challenge. Making lasting friendships is key to feeling at home in a new city, so it’s good to know upfront that it might take a little time.

Seattleites tend to be a bit reserved, but don’t let that discourage you. Building a community here, like anywhere else, takes persistence. Try picking up a new hobby, joining a local meetup, or volunteering. These activities are great for meeting new people and can also help you expand your professional network.

Seattle has a neighborhood for everyone, whether you’re after the buzz of nightlife or a quiet spot to settle down with a family. If living car-free and being close to downtown is your thing, check out Capitol Hill or Belltown. These areas are perfect for those who love to be in the heart of the action.

Consider Greenwood, Magnolia, or West Seattle for a more laid-back, family-friendly vibe. These neighborhoods offer peace while still keeping you connected to the city.

If you're looking to escape the city even more, Bainbridge Island is your answer. With its charming, small-town feel, it's just a short ferry ride away from downtown. 

So whether you're a night owl, a family planner, or someone needing a quiet retreat, Seattle has a spot that’s just right for you

Seattle isn’t just famous for its music scene, what really sets the city apart is its breathtaking natural scenery. With the majestic Mount Rainier as a constant backdrop, Seattle offers a paradise for nature lovers right in the heart of the city.

Imagine starting your day with a hike where there are countless trails to choose from. Or perhaps you prefer a stroll through Discovery Park, the largest in the city, offering stunning views.

If water is more your speed, Seattle doesn’t disappoint. From the thrill of white-water rafting to whale-watching, the options are endless. You’d be hard-pressed to find another city that blends urban life with such spectacular access to nature.

Seattle’s job market is thriving, with low unemployment rates, attractive salaries, and a strong demand for talent. The most attractive job sectors in 2024 are tech, healthcare, and construction. 

But it’s not all smooth sailing. The high cost of living and fierce competition for jobs are ongoing challenges. While Seattle offers great opportunities, weighing these against the realities of living expenses and job competition is important. Be prepared to work hard and budget wisely if you’re aiming to break into Seattle’s dynamic job scene

In Seattle, coffee isn’t just a beverage, it’s a way of life. With those cold winters, a good, hot caffeine fix is almost a survival tool. You’ll find fantastic coffee shops on nearly every block, ready to serve your favorite drink.

Sure, Starbucks is the big name, practically a landmark with locations on every corner. But locals often gravitate toward the charm of smaller, unique spots like Ballard Coffee and All City Coffee. These gems offer a cozy vibe and some of the best coffee in town.

One of the perks of living in Washington? No state income tax! 

That’s right! you get to keep more of your hard-earned money instead of handing it over to the state. But before you start celebrating, remember that Seattle has its own way of collecting funds through local taxes.

Seattle’s sales tax rate is on the higher side, so be mindful of that when budgeting. It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with these local taxes to ensure you’re not blindsided by costs that might offset those income tax savings you’re enjoying.

Seattleites are crazy about their sports teams. The Seahawks and Sounders have incredibly passionate fan bases, while the Mariners often leave fans longing for more.

Seattle is a city that loves its sports, earning the title of the “12th Man” for the Seahawks, a fan base so dedicated they helped propel the team to a Super Bowl win (and nearly a second one) about a decade ago. Whether you’re cheering from the stands or joining a local sports bar, the energy and enthusiasm of Seattle’s sports scene are truly contagious.

And there you have it. Our work here is complete. 

If the thought of relocating has you feeling a bit frazzled, don’t worry. That’s all part of the journey. 

We hope this guide has taken some of the edge off and given you a better picture of whether Seattle is your perfect match. So, take a deep breath, sip on a hot cup of joe, and get ready to dive into the Seattle scene with confidence.